What is genetic counselling?

Genetic counselling provides an individual or family with
information and support regarding health concerns which run in
their family. Genetic counselling may involve the diagnosis of a
genetic condition, the provision of information and supportive
counselling (advice and guidance) by a team of health
professionals, so that families and individuals may be better able
to adjust to diagnosis. Follow-up counselling is available to
ensure on-going support, review previous information or to answer
new questions as they arise.

In Australia clinical genetic consultations for
people with concerns about the possibility of an inherited
condition in themselves or their family or with concerns about
findings in a pregnancy are covered by Medicare (however some
genetic tests may incur a cost). It is preferable to
have a referral from a medical or allied health professional, and
all referrals and enquiries are triaged.